Proper service is around 14-15th century. an expression believed to have originated in Northern Ireland and Scotland and quickly spread to large countries and their colonies.
The term was mainly coined for personal servants, usually consisting of black slaves. These servants usually worked in the households of royalty, nobles or other wealthy people, being seen and heard as little as possible.

Black slaves were considered dirty and when employers were richer, whites were hired to work in the dining room. But even for them, proper service was essential. Even today, large and luxurious restaurants have followed suit with decent service, unaware of its tragic and racist history.

The approach is not intended for restaurant waiters, but for servants in private households, such as royalty, ambassadors, government officials, especially if they are hosting a dinner party, for example.